Siena’s Brookins has sprained wrist, should play in tourney

ALBANY – Siena coach Mitch Buonaguro said freshman point guard Rakeem Brookins has a sprained right wrist but should be able to play against Manhattan in the first round of the MAAC Tournament on Friday night.

Brookins sat out Sunday’s 81-73 win over Marist in the regular-season finale at Times Union Center.

“The decision was made by the medical staff,” Buonaguro said. “He has a really sore wrist. But you know what, playing (Jonathan) Breeden all year pays off. This is why you play guys. We really didn’t miss a beat. He was terrific.”

Breeden played 36 minutes, scoring 10 points and committing only one turnover.

“I just have to lead my team and also play my game and get my teammates involved,” Breeden said. “It would have been a lot better if I didn’t have any (turnovers). I’m glad I took care of the ball. My teammates were there whenever I threw the ball. We were all on the same page.”

I have nothing against Brookins but this team plays much better with Breeden running the point guard. He’s not afraid to drive to the basket which opens up their outside shooting and keeps the opposing team from doubling up on Rossiter. I hope he stays with him.

I think Brookins and Breeden are a pretty good combo when they are in there together as either can play the 1 or the 2. Wouldn’t mind seeing them get a lot of time together in the MAAC Tourney with Jackson picking up some time at the 3 (especially with how poorly Wignot and Burdine are playing). Real shame with Owen, for a stretch this year he was their second best player, now the confidence in his shot is totally gone and he’s always been wild when he drives the ball. He’s pretty much relegated to defensive specialist which isn’t especially valuable on a team that plays mainly zone defense.